Love Lost: These Elk Got Catfished by a Local Dog in Loveland

Sometimes love just isn't meant to be. Unfortunately, this was the case for some confused local elk in Loveland.

In March, Loveland resident Bryanna Akins let her pitbull-boxer, Bubba, out in the yard to play when the pup began wagging his tail and whining. Akins soon realized that Bubba's cries sounded similar to the bugle of an elk — sure enough, his barks quickly drew two elk to the yard.

READ: New Study Says Colorado is the No. 8 Most Catfished State in the U.S.

Akins told Townsquare NoCo that the animals, a male with a broken antler and another with no antlers, approached the backyard fence to check out her dog. Perhaps the duo thought they could get a head start on rutting season (that begins in August).

Thankfully, the elk eventually registered that Bubba was not a potential mate, and Akins was able to safely bring her dog back inside. Once they could no longer hear Bubba's "bugling," the animals left.

RELATED: Here's Why You Shouldn't Try and Get Tough With a Large Wyoming Elk

While Akins had a harmless encounter with the elk, others have not been so lucky. In January, a couple from Parshall, Colorado, spotted a large bull elk during a drive.

They pulled over to get a closer look, which upset the animal. The elk then charged their car, leaving them with popped tires and a reminder to steer clear of wildlife.

Looking for more Colorado wildlife news? Check out 25 crazy wildlife encounters that happened in Colorado this year in the gallery below.